4th wave likely in March in Odisha, Govt advises people to wear masks in public places

Bureau,Odishabarta

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has advised the people to remain prepared for the fourth wave of COVID-19 which is likely to hit the country in March considering its spread in some countries.

Ajit Kumar Mohanty, Special Secretary, Health department on Tuesday said as per several models, the fourth COVID wave is likely to affect India in second or third week of March. But he expressed optimism that there was no reason to panic considering the high vaccination status in the state.

Mohanty said majority of population in the country have achieved immunity due to sub-clinical infections. Around 90% of population have taken double dose vaccination and 40% have been administered the booster dose. Considering likelihood of the fourth wave, he advised the people to take the booster dose and wear face masks in public places.

Drawing a comparison in the COVID situation between India and China, Mohanty said the cases rose in China after restrictions were lifted on December 8 following public resistance. Similarly, the vaccination there was not as effective as India.

While that elderly people are getting infected in Japan and China now, priority was given to the elderly and vulnerable population like those having comorbidities in India during the vaccination drive. As a result, immunisation of this section of society in India is stronger than other countries, he added.

Considering the steps already taken and preparedness of the state government, the fourth wave is unlikely to have much impact in Odisha, Mohanty said. However, he advised the people to use face masks in public and crowded places to prevent spread of the virus and avail the second and booster dosages of the vaccines.